MORE than 1000 runners and supporters turned out at Suncoast Lawns on Sunday for the 2026 Eye Can Walk 5km and 10km challenge, helping raise much-needed funds for the KZN Blind and Deaf Society (KZNBDS).

The race got under way at 07:30, with participants heading along the promenade before turning back towards the finish at Suncoast Lawns.

Mr Price Sport runner Litlhokoa Khoete led the field of elite and social runners across the finish line in 32:27. He was followed by junior athlete Cebo Nyali in 33:12, while Nkosingiphile Ntuli rounded off the podium in 33:27.

In the women’s race, Nwabisa Maoli was first across the line in 38:40, finishing seventh overall. Likeleli Khonyane claimed eighth overall in 39:23, while Dimakatso Motloung finished in 41:03.

Also Read: Eye Can Walk 5km/ 10km challenges runners

KZNBDS hailed the event as a huge success and thanked the runners, volunteers and sponsors who helped make the day possible.

“The Eye Can Walk is about so much more than completing 5km or 10km, every step represents awareness, acceptance, inclusion, empowerment and hope,” said KZNBDS.

“It reminds us that disability should never be a barrier to participation, opportunity or belonging. And we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to participate and thrive. Whether you walked the 5km, took on the 10km, ran, volunteered, encouraged a friend, cheered from the sidelines or simply came out to show your support, you made this event special.”

Funds raised through the event will support KZNBDS programmes focused on skills development, education, independence, employment opportunities and rehabilitation, while helping create a more inclusive society for people who are blind, deaf, deafblind, partially sighted and hard of hearing.

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